How to spend 48 hours in Shanghai

Located on the vibrant Huaihai Middle Road, Haus Nowhere—Gentle Monster’s captivating Shanghai concept store—is a must-visit if you’re in town.

On the ground floor is Nudake’s Croissant Gym, where fitness equipment playfully mimics everyone's favourite flaky pastry. As you ascend the stairs, the world’s largest Gentle Monster retail space is revealed, full of thought-provoking art installations to elevate your shopping experience.

Haus Nowhere
798 Huaihai Rd M., Shanghai

Just a short distance from the city centre, the Shanghai Art Museum is housed in the former China Pavilion of the World Expo. The museum’s striking architecture sets the stage for an inspiring journey through local Chinese art. Inside, you’ll discover a diverse collection of ancient artefacts, traditional Chinese paintings, contemporary works and digital pieces.

China Art Museum
205 Shangnan Rd, Pudong, Shanghai

In Shanghai’s historic Hongkou District lies 1933— a striking art deco-style former slaughterhouse. Built in 1933 by British architects, this concrete marvel has transformed from an abattoir to a hub for creative industries. Its unique design aesthetics and central atrium linked by interlocking ramps and air bridges make it an Instagram lover’s dream come true. After extensive restoration in 2008, the building now attracts visitors and amateur photographers. Despite some commercial encroachment, its architectural beauty and intriguing history make it a must-see destination.

Tatler tip: Visit the gothic clothing store, OKVLT13, on the ground floor—from goth to fetish wear, the store carries a broad range of styles and makes for one hell of a shopping experience.

1933 Old Millfun
10 Shajing Rd, Hongkou District, Shanghai

Yuyuan Bazaar, located just outside Yu Garden, is a bustling marketplace filled with traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore a variety of shops offering local snacks, antiques, jewellery and souvenirs. The market is especially vibrant at night, illuminated by colourful lights. Don’t miss the renowned Nan Xiang steamed stuffed buns, considered some of the best in China. Be sure to capture the stunning reflections of the ancient buildings in the nearby waters.

Yu Garden
279 Yu Yuan Lao Jie,
Huangpu, Shanghai

Experience legendary jazz at the only venue of its kind in Shanghai—home to the world’s oldest jazz band. This iconic group is composed of six veteran musicians, whose average age is 76. They have performed every night for more than 20 years in Shanghai and, in 2005, were awarded a Guinness World Record for being the oldest jazz band. They perform nightly at the Jazz Bar, transporting you to the vibrant era of old Shanghai in the 1920s and ’30s—a must-see experience.

Fairmont Peace Hotel
20 Nanjing Road East, Shanghai

There are many options when it comes to sunset drinks with a view in Shanghai. On the Bund, my favourite is Sir Elly’s, situated on the 14th floor of The Peninsula Shanghai—a prime location to enjoy the Pudong skyline. To make the most of it, arrive early to secure a good table and enjoy the light show as the sun goes down.

Sir Elly’s
14/F, Peninsula Hotel, No. 32 The Bund, 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai

The highest alfresco dining venue in China, Flair offers spectacular views of Shanghai from its perch on the 58th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai. While the setting is undeniably impressive, Flair’s appeal goes beyond the view. The extensive cocktail and spirits menu is a highlight, with a wide range of options to suit all tastes. If you’re looking for a lively night out, keep an eye on Flair's music programme as they often have celebrated local and international DJs on the decks.

Flair
8 Shiji Blvd, Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai

Good food, good vibes and a touch of “bastardised” Chinese cuisine? That’s Bastard. Nestled in the trendy Jing’An district, Bastard has quickly become a go-to spot for contemporary Chinese cuisine. Beyond the delicious Chinese fare, Bastard’s vibe sets it apart from other wine bars in Shanghai. Think bright magenta tables, neon accents, and industrial-chic walls—this place is Instagram-worthy, guaranteed and make your feed pop.

Bastard
Room 102, No. 30, 319 Jiaozhou Road, Jing’an, Shanghai

Who knew that the eighth-best pizzeria in the world—and the second-best in Asia—was hiding in Shanghai? And for good reason. The pizzas are truly amazing and guaranteed to leave you with a full belly and a smile. 

Beyond the pizza, Bottega has a cool vibe with Aperol Spritzes flowing freely, a retro diner feel and a DJ spinning tunes through the night, making it a fun and lively place to have dinner with friends.

Bottega
1/F, Kwah Centre,108 Xiangyang Bei Lu, near Huaihai Zhong Lu, Shanghai

If you’re a fan of French food, Shanghai has plenty of good and affordable options. Blaz is one of our favourites. Tucked away in a charming courtyard in the French Concession, Blaz offers a real taste of France. From foie gras and terrines to a selection of cheeses, this unassuming eatery has everything you could crave.

Its roasted yellow chicken, cooked in a 36-month-old Comté and morels, is to die for.

Tatler tip: We recommend booking for lunch and enjoying the terrace. If you’re going French, go all the way!

Blaz
Room 1B, 1F, 20 Donghu Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai

The motto at Atelier Izakaya is simple: order a sake, then order some yakitori while you wait. Repeat and enjoy. Atelier Izakaya 2.0 is situated close to The Bund, making it a great restaurant to enjoy the sunset and wait for the night lights to appear. Afterwards, head to the rooftop for cocktails so you can keep the good vibes going. 

Atelier Izakaya 2.0
3/F, 17 Yan'an Dong Lu, near Sichuan Zhong Lu, Huangpu District, Shanghai

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